For Immediate Release
October 19, 2023
Today, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced he is on his way to Israel during this time of ongoing conflict and terror, and will arrive there Friday morning.
“We are deeply grateful for Governor Newsom’s visit. He has been a staunch ally of the Jewish community and is supporting us through this difficult period. The fact that he is willing to make this trip in wartime proves once again that he recognizes and values the U.S.-Israel relationship, as well as the Jewish community both here in the state of California and around the world,” said Tye Gregory, JCRC Bay Area CEO.
Yesterday, citing heightened fears and concerns among California’s faith communities following “the unconscionable terrorist attacks in Israel,” Governor Newsom also authorized the immediate expansion of additional security funds for faith institutions across the state. The announcement authorized $10 million in state funding to immediately increase police presence at places of worship, and an additional $20 million investment in the California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program.
“Antisemitism and the hate-motivated targeting vulnerable communities is reaching crisis levels and we thank the governor for increasing security assistance in response to these ever-present threats. The funding will aid community organizations in enhancing the safety of their facilities and is especially needed at this time to protect California’s Jewish and Muslim communities,” said Gregory.
JCRC Bay Area is the largest collective voice of Bay Area Jews, working in pursuit of a more just world where Jewish identity is embraced and all people thrive. By building bridges and working in coalition with diverse ethnic, faith, political, and civic communities, we foster partnerships, provide meaningful educational and engagement opportunities, and build consensus for actionable solutions to real-world challenges. www.jcrc.org.
